Can you describe your journey into working in education?
I studied level 3 childcare at HRC Turnford, I then did my foundation degree in education with them. Completing my BA in early years education with Hertfordshire university. After working in nurseries and the family centre service, I applied to be a teaching assistant with a supply agency.
The agency I worked with (Tina Moore) placed me in an amazing school and made me feel confident in my abilities. They also explained that once in a school many people are able to get into paid teacher training.
When in the school I then worked for a year when my headteacher approached me about working with Teach First. They offered paid training and jumping in the deep end by teaching my own reception class from day one with the support of many professionals.
What are the key things that you love about your job?
I love getting to see how the children grow and develop. An amazing part of this has been seeing how the children just view me as a 'proper teacher' even when I didn't feel like it. I love that the job is constantly different and it is impossible to get bored.
What advice would you give to someone who is looking to work in a similar role?
Stick to what you need. I needed a paid role and held on for that and found what I needed. Be honest about your personal needs, I needed some additional support with mental health and learning disabilities. I told my school about these and what would help me to do my job to the best of my abilities.